About the AOA

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The AOA's mission is to advance the distinctive

philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine.

Serving as the professional family for more than 129,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and osteopathic medical students, the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) promotes public health and encourages scientific research. In addition to serving as the primary certifying body for DOs, the AOA is the accrediting agency for all osteopathic medical schools.

Continually striving to advance the distinctive philosophy and practice of osteopathic medicine, the AOA stands for the following universal principles:

Collaborating with others to advance the practice of osteopathic medicine

The AOA stands firmly behind osteopathic physicians’ ethical and professional responsibilities to patients and the medical profession. We offer an in-depth look at our ethical standards in our official Code of Ethics. Ourpolicies and positions also outline the AOA’s stance on major health issues affecting all areas of society.

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What is a DO?

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine, or DOs, believe there's more to good health than the absence of pain or disease. Learn more and find a DO near you by visiting DoctorsThatDO.org.